White Elephant Resorts will open a 54-key hotel in Aspen on 3 February 2026, marking the boutique brand’s first site in the American West.
The hotel will be located on the corner of Main Street and Garmisch Street in the West End neighbourhood, close to the Aspen Institute, Harris Hall and the Benedict Music Tent.
The development extends the company’s portfolio beyond Nantucket and Palm Beach. Boston architectural firm Embarc has led the design, introducing a modern Alpine style intended to sit alongside Aspen’s Victorian-influenced buildings. Interiors use a palette of rust, warm whites and charcoal with leather, wood and stone details. Brand motifs such as a brass elephant trunk at the lobby desk are incorporated throughout.
Guest rooms include natural woods, porcelain tiles and textured finishes, with several offering outdoor terraces or balconies. Amenities include hand-painted lamp shades, embossed leather headboards and nightly turndown service with Colorado-made Pollinator Chocolate.
The top accommodation includes the three-bedroom Ajax Penthouse, which has a log fireplace, kitchen and a terrace with mountain views. Two-bedroom options include the West End Suite and Highlands Suite. Guests in these suites will have access to a games library supplied by homeware brand Arhaus.
Art will be a major feature, with more than 125 works curated by art adviser Emily Santangelo. The collection includes pieces by Alex Katz and Robert Peterson and commissions by Orit Fuchs and Doodle Boy. Photography of Maroon Bells by Bob Tabor will rotate through the lobby. A partnership with Anderson Ranch Arts Centre will give guests access to arts programmes, including a summer camp for children.
President at New England Development, Douglass Karp, said: “Expanding into Aspen marks an exciting new chapter for White Elephant Resorts. Our vision has always been to create hotels that capture the spirit of the destination.”
Restaurant LoLa 41° will also open at the hotel, offering seafood and sushi influenced by locations along the 41st longitude. Breakfast will include pastries from local bakery Open Sesame, while après-ski dishes will feature nigiri, martinis and truffle fries.
Pet-friendly rooms will be available, with treats and bowls supplied by local businesses.
